My dog has a deep paw cut, is licking it, and seems lethargic. Vet?

Hello, Dogs with heartworm may cough with or without phlegm. The best way to test for heartworm is with a small blood sample. That cut on the paw pad is very deep. Ideally, I think she should see a vet for it now. Clean the wound with warm saline before applying the topical antibiotics and bandage. Do this twice daily until healed for the best possible results. If her foot gets swollen, starts having green discharge, or she stops being interested in food, it may be a sign of a serious infection that requires a vet visit and oral antibiotics. I hope that's helpful!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is not possible to know this just based on a description. It does though sounds concerning enough that warrants an evaluation by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to look at the wound up close to determine if stitches are needed. Also, antibiotics and pain control medications can be prescribed at the time as these wounds tend to be painful. Good luck!

That appears deep enough and long enough it will require stitches to heal quicker and antibiotics so it will not get infected since the source is unknown. It is best to have it evaluated this evening if possible, but if not, then keep Neosporin on it and discourage her from scratching it and visit a vet in the morning.

It sounds like her cut may have become infected and is causing more problems. Try to keep the wound as clean as possible for now and plan on taking her to the vet as soon as you can. She may need to have the wound stitched closed and will probably need some antibiotics and pain medication. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

I would recommend taking Maru to a veterinarian. It is hard to determine if that was a puncture wound, an abrasion from licking or a growth. After a physical examination, the veterinarian can determine if it is something to be concerned about. Until you can get Maru to a veterinarian I would recommend placing an Elizabethan collar on Maru to prevent him from licking at it. I hope Maru feels better soon and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Hello. Wounds like this can indeed take a long time to heal, but everything looks pretty good. You have been doing a great job. This could still be stitched, but it will eventually heal if you keep it clean, medicated & bandaged. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It depends on the location and severity of the cut as to how it would best be treated. Sometimes they can be closed, other times bandaging may be best. Ideally wounds should be addressed as quickly as possible to allow for optimal healing. Waiting another day may make closing the wound impossible if it's an option. Make sure that Moose cannot lick the wound, this may require an e-collar (lampshade cone of shame). If it is painful or continuing to bleed he should be seen tonight.